Dynamic identification and seismic capacity of an innovative cleanroom with walkable ceiling system

Abstract

Past earthquakes highlighted the vulnerability of cleanrooms, especially in earthquake-prone countries like Italy; the post-earthquake reconnaissance showed that damage to cleanrooms led to immeasurable economic losses. This study investigates the seismic performance of an innovative cleanroom, seismically designed and provided with innovative components. Full-scale shake table tests were performed on the cleanroom according to ICC-ES AC156 protocol; the cleanroom was tested under operating conditions. Both dynamic properties and seismic behavior of the specimen were assessed. The tests showed the excellent seismic behavior of the cleanroom, confirming that simple devices can significantly improve the seismic performance of nonstructural elements.